Source · Select Committees · Foreign Affairs Committee
Recommendation 25
25
Accepted
Prioritise civil and military support for Lebanon's stability, armed forces, and nation-building efforts.
Conclusion
The UK needs to continue its support for Lebanon, which is a vital component of stability in the Levant, situated as it is alongside Syria, with its fragile polity and its strong ties to Lebanon. The UK Government should prioritise spending on both civil and military support for Lebanon’s 55 economic and social stability, in particular for its armed forces in their implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701 and the November 2024 ceasefire with Israel, to help strengthen Lebanon as a major component of the regional peacebuilding infrastructure. It is vital that the UK supports the Lebanese Armed Forces because if the area is to be stabilised, people need to believe they will be protected by the official military force of the Lebanese Government so that they will feel confident enough to hand over their weapons. The UK Government should prioritise assistance to Lebanon’s nation-building, as nation-building is an area where the UK can add value through its expertise. (Recommendation, Paragraph 136) 56
Government Response Summary
The government agreed with the recommendation but stated that it already provides significant and long-standing civil and military support to Lebanon, including to the Lebanese Armed Forces and humanitarian assistance, confirming this support would continue.
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government agrees with this recommendation. The UK has supported the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) for more than a decade, as the sole legitimate force of the Lebanese state. Our practical support for the LAF forms part of our wider efforts towards de-escalation and peace in the region, as well as helping to build the foundations for a stable Lebanon. The UK has also provided significant funding for humanitarian assistance since 2011 to both refugees and host communities in Lebanon. Last year, the UK was one of the first countries to respond to the needs of the Lebanese people during the conflict, providing £56 million in humanitarian support to help the most vulnerable to meet their basic needs and access essential services including health and education. Our support to the most vulnerable will continue. The UK has also acted to help reinforce Lebanon’s border with Syria to deter illegal crossings and activity by armed groups and smugglers.